The Detroit Tigers have one last shot to leave New York with a win, following a heartbreaking 3-2 extra-inning loss to the Mets on Wednesday. After dropping the first two games of the series, the Tigers are looking to avoid a sweep in Thursday's finale at Citi Field.

The offense has struggled to find its rhythm, but the pitching staff has kept Detroit competitive. Keider Montero takes the mound for the Tigers, and the 25-year-old has been a steadying presence with Justin Verlander sidelined. Over his last two starts, Montero has delivered quality outings, posting a 1.42 ERA and 3.91 FIP across 12 2/3 innings while earning a win. His recent form gives Detroit a fighting chance.

Opposing him is Mets right-hander Nolan McLean, who has been consistent through eight starts this season. The 24-year-old has allowed at least one run in every outing, but his strikeout numbers are impressive, and he has yet to walk more than two batters in a game. McLean faced the Tigers once before, back on Sept. 2 in Detroit, where he tossed a quality start—six innings, two runs, three hits, two walks, and seven strikeouts—to earn the win.

Game Details:
- Matchup: Detroit Tigers (19-24) vs. New York Mets (17-25)
- Game 44: RHP Keider Montero (2-2, 3.18 ERA) vs. RHP Nolan McLean (1-2, 2.78 ERA)

This one shapes up as a tight contest if Montero can maintain his recent momentum. The Tigers need more from their bats, though, and McLean's strikeout ability could make that a tough task if Detroit falls behind early. The edge on the mound leans slightly toward New York, thanks to McLean's 2.39 FIP and high strikeout rate, but Montero has been good enough to keep the Tigers in the game.

Wednesday's loss stung especially hard because the Tigers had enough pitching to win, but a late Mets rally tied the game and pushed it into extras. For Detroit, the key is simple: give Montero early support. If the Tigers can make McLean work and avoid another quiet start at the plate, they have a real chance to end the series on a high note.